about
Artist Statement
My work is an experiment in emotion and hope, informed by everything I have ever experienced or imagined visually, aurally, viscerally, spiritually.
A leaf.
A sewer grate.
A vision.
A surprise.
What story in these can be expressed in metal?
What structure fabricated by human hand dares to inform the formless?
Can form create emotion?
Do I risk answers?
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Nancy Lee
Nancy Lee is a contemporary designer and award winning metalsmith working in copper, silver, brass and gold. Work sometimes includes unusual semi-precious gemstones and found objects. Techniques include etching, heat-treatments, and multiple patinas to bring warmth and color to the metal. The ancient techniques combined with modern methods help bring forth tomorrow’s treasures.
Nancy’s adventures in Metalsmithing began over a dozen years ago at the Indianapolis Art Center (Indianapolis, IN) where she enrolled in Marilyn Smith’s jewelry class to learn to make sterling findings for polymer clay beads she had created. She fell in love with the plastic qualities of metal and has been hooked since. Her work is now recognized for its minimalist style, body-conscious architecture and attention to detail.
Examples of Lee’s proficiency toward narrative works are apparent in the pendants and necklaces she favors. Her works, layered with multiple elements of meaning, offer a perfect landscape for story. The ultimate result displays simplicity and harmony of design while allowing the viewer to insert their own authentic meaning.
Lee was raised in a small Midwest town in the Heartland of Illinois, where she enjoyed a childhood of unlocked screen doors, playing alone or with her two sisters along nearby railroad tracks and clear streams at the edge of town. She is the daughter of Lee and Roseanne Sherman of Georgetown, Illinois; middle sister to Janet and Teresa, both residing in Illinois; mother to her one and only Brad, who resides in Indiana. Lee attended Danville Area College and Parkland College, where she studied biology. Lee currently resides in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Professional Services and Designations
Lee’s professional services includes making custom-designed jewelry, limited repair service, and teaching jewelry classes in her Circle City Industrial Complex studio and at the Indianapolis Art Center . She is a member of Society of North American Goldsmiths, Society of American Silversmiths and a faculty member at the Indianapolis Art Center. Lee is the proud recipient of an Individual Artist Grant for 2010-11 from the Indianapolis Arts Commission, is a designated Indiana Artisan for her jewelry work, and is a multiple award winner at the Indiana State Fair in the Professional Artist Division. She is a volunteer board member of the Indianapolis Downtown Artist & Dealers Association (IDADA), where participates in First Friday Art Tours and acts as Board Secretary and advocate for the arts. She encourages you to buy handmade.
